Japan is well-known for its Urawaza — clever, do-it-yourself tricks for using household products to solve common problems. Here are strategies that have worked for others — and may just work for you…
Cure Hiccups with a Q-Tip
Cure the hiccups with a Q-tip. Briefly touch one end of a Q-tip to the small piece of flesh that dangles in the back of your throat (uvula).
Why it works: This triggers your gag reflex, which interrupts the spasms of your diaphragm. No hiccup cure works 100% of the time, but this one is more effective than many others.
Clear a stuffy nose with scallions.
People with stuffy noses shouldn’t take over-the-counter nasal decongestants too often — overuse can cause increased congestion. Scallions can serve as a substitute. Cut the top fronds off two scallions, then very gently put the thick white root part into each nostril. (Warning: Do not shove it high up your nose.) Your nose should start to clear in as little as one minute.
Why it works: Like other members of the onion family, scallions contain chemical compounds that make the eyes water and the nose run.
